Learning from the Land: Incorporating Indigenous Perspectives into the Plant Sciences

Abstract

It is well established that indigenous peoples, both in North America and around the world, have extensive knowledge of plant ecology through their use of these organisms for food, medicine, construction materials, and in numerous ceremonies. This knowledge is rooted in centuries, in some cases millennia, of experience. We examine the cultural and scientific bases of this knowledge and discuss interactions between Western science and indigenous peoples, including how some scholars denigrate indigenous knowledge and stories, whereas others depend upon indigenous knowledge to establish key aspects of plant ecology and evolution. We also discuss the knowledge of indigenous peoples concerning the dynamics of plant/animal interactions, including why bears are regarded as “the keepers of the plants” in some cultural traditions. From the perspective of education, we discuss how traditional basket-making methods are still vitally important to many Native American tribes and communities. These activities are vital in strengthening family relationships and are passed on from generation to generation. Basket making and food preservation and preparation are intimately tied to culture. Finally, we discuss how this knowledge of plants and their ecological relationships is related to ties to the land itself. The idea of connection to the land can be used to increase student appreciation of plant sciences, by allowing students from various backgrounds to consider how their cultural traditions may have influenced plant ecology. A good discussion can be developed about concepts of nature and relatedness in Western science and in other cultural traditions. Following up on this theme, students can be asked to consider the role of humans in shaping ecological communities (e.g., through selective use of fire), and in the importance of certain plants in their own cultural traditions (e.g., for food or medicinal purposes). We discuss ways to engage these themes both online and in class, which can be key in improving student appreciation of plant sciences.

The white man sure ruined this country. It’s turned back to wilderness.

James Rust (Miwok elder) quoted in Anderson 2005, p. 3